Join Raymond Jones this Wednesday evening at 9:00 on WHRO-FM for a special edition of A Local Touch as we celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month through a captivating selection of music with a distinct Virginia connection.
We begin the evening with a unique gem by the legendary cellist and composer Pablo Casals. While best known for his virtuosic performances, Casals’ compositions are rarely in the spotlight today. You’ll have the chance to hear his beautiful choral piece, “Nigra Sum,” performed by The Virginia Women’s Choir. This is a rare opportunity to appreciate Casals’ lesser-known role as a composer, and it’s not to be missed.
Next, we stay in the rich musical landscape of Spain with works by Isaac Albéniz, Ignacio Cervantes, and Francisco Tárrega. These evocative pieces, including “Sevilla,” “Tres Danzas,” and the beloved “Recuerdos de la Alhambra,” will be brought to life by the local Tidewater Guitar Orchestra. For those interested, you can hear this talented ensemble live in Smithfield on Sunday, September 22, performing works by Tárrega and other Hispanic composers. Our own Wayla Chambo will make an appearance at this concert.
Continuing the celebration, world-renowned guitarist Jason Vieaux teams up with the Williamsburg Symphony to perform Joaquín Rodrigo’s iconic “Concierto de Aranjuez.” This concerto stands as one of the most famous and enduring works for guitar, filled with the passion and spirit of the south of Spain.
The evening also features “Tropical Airs,” a lively composition by Cuban-American clarinetist Paquito d'Rivera, performed by the Air Force Heritage of America Band.
Rounding out the program, we hear from the rising Spanish violinist María Dueñas, winner of Richmond’s prestigious Menuhin Competition, performing Beethoven’s Violin Concerto. And finally, from the archives of Heifetz on the Air, we present an episode entitled “Spanish Steps,” paying homage to the vibrant Spanish musical tradition.
Don’t miss this evening of rich musical connections, all with a distinct Hispanic flair. Tune in this Wednesday at 9:00 p.m. on WHRO-FM 90.3 or online.
